Many people look at nutrition strictly in terms of weight loss or gain, and all too often only when there’s a problem with either. What goes unrecognized is that dietary choices impact systemic and oral health alike.
It is important to know how your teeth are affected by daily habits to enjoy long-term beauty and function. If you’ve never considered how the food on your plate relates to the condition of your smile, the information below may just change your outlook.
Much Ado About Sugar
The topic of sugar will, and should, come up whenever there is a conversation about how nutritional choices relate to teeth’s condition. Many hold misconceptions about the role this substance plays in dental disease processes. The common belief is that sugar directly causes cavities and declining gum health, which identifies the wrong villain in this story. Oral bacteria feed on carbohydrates, including simple carbs like sugar, leaving behind acid that wears away dental enamel and damages periodontal soft tissue. Reducing carbohydrate intake limits bacterial growth, which explains why those who cut back on sweets experience fewer cavities than those who continuously indulge.
Selecting a Smile-Friendly Diet
While you can discuss with your dentist which options are the best to include in your diet, the following are just some examples proven to maintain and enhance the health of teeth:
Green Tea – Already known to be beneficial in general wellness, green tea has been shown to decrease periodontal inflammation and create a more alkaline oral environment. As a result, drinking green tea prevents bacteria from causing cavities, helps maintain gum health, and protects against tooth loss.
Cheese – Like many dairy products, cheese is a good source of protein, an essential nutrient that strengthens teeth and their supportive structures. As with green tea, cheese also raises pH levels in the mouth, lowering the risk for tooth decay.
Yogurt – A food high in calcium, yogurt is also made up of probiotics, bacteria that are helpful in digestion that make it difficult for harmful bacteria to colonize and cause dental health issues. Unsweetened, plain yogurt is the ideal choice, especially if you plan on making this a regular part of your diet. You can also add berries for flavor and a rich source of antioxidants.
Apples – While the natural sugars and acids in apples may make them seem like poor candidates for helping teeth at first, these fruits have a lot to offer when it comes to oral health. Eating an apple stimulates saliva production, which aids in washing away food particles and bacteria along with preventing the effects of dry mouth (xerostomia). Apples are also high in fiber, promoting healthy gums and digestion.
Fish – In adding fish to your diet, you are adding many nutrients that benefit dental enamel and teeth as a whole, including vitamin D, protein, and phosphorous. Salmon, albacore tuna, sardines, and other similar fish species are natural sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, which studies have linked to significantly reducing the likelihood of developing periodontal disease.
Give Us a Call Today!
Whether answering questions about brushing and flossing properly or discussing dietary choices that promote long-term dental function, Dr. David Carothers helps patients become well-informed about their oral health. Together with his team, Dr. Carothers provides thorough preventive dental care in Portland, Gresham, and communities across Multnomah County.
For more advice on keeping your smile healthy for years to come, call our office and schedule a visit today.